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Thursday, January 31, 2013

On January 31, 2013 at approximately 4:30 pm Darke County Deputies along with Greenville Township Fire, Greenville Township Rescue and CareFlight were dispatched to the 8000 block of State Route 49 north in reference to a single vehicle injury accident.

Preliminary investigation revealed a white 2003 Chevy Venture van driven by Heather L. Knowles, 35, of Greenville, Ohio was northbound on state route 49, north of Horatio-Harris Creek Road. Knowles lost control of the mini van on the snow covered roadway. Knowles traveled off the right side of the roadway striking a utility pole causing the vehicle to rollover, Knowles vehicle came to rest in a field.

Knowles was transported to Miami Valley Hospital by CareFlight. Knowles' is listed in serious condition at this time.

This accident remains under investigation by the Darke County Sheriff's Office.

As a reminder the Darke County Sheriff's Office would like motorist use extreme caution when traveling in conditions where blowing and drifting snow create hazardous conditions on the roadways.

Every year the Junior High Theatre Workshop troupe diligently works to present an exciting theatre performance for the community while learning the basics of all facets of theatre production. This year’s show is titled WIPEOUT , presented on February 8th 7 9th at Greenville Lighthouse Christian with over 30 students and two adult actors actively participating.

The show kicked off before Thanksgiving with auditions and has been running practices every day after school. The students participate in the set design, produce choreography and even manage ticket sales. This is truly an experience where the students must learn to work together to bring an amazing final product to the stage.

Wipeout is set in the early 1960’s on a beach in California. The root of the problem is the local surf shop is set to sell their business to a ruthless business man so he is able to turn the beach into a parking lot. There are two groups of kids that hang on the beach, the Cove Kids and the Avalon Kids. One group wants to save the beach and the other wants their part of the money pie!

The Darke County Relay for Life Committee is gearing up for this year’s Kick Off Celebration which will be Monday, February 11th. The one hour event will begin at 6:30 pm at Shawnee Prairie Preserve, which is located at 4267 State Route 502, Greenville. This year’s theme for the American Cancer Society Relay For Life is “Don’t Monkey Around--We’re Wild About Finding A Cure”.

Everyone is invited to attend to this event in which you’ll learn more about the program and ways you can help. Remember the Relay For Life is a community-based event where the local residents work together to raise awareness, research funding, network with cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, family and friends.

Relay events take many volunteers to organize as well as work the two day event which will be held on Friday, July 19th and Saturday, July 20th at Heritage Park in Versailles. There are many dedicated volunteers from the past years that would love your help in making this year’s Relay event the most celebrated to date. Please consider helping with the following committees; Team Recruitment, Survivorship/Caregiver, Luminaria, Health Promotions, Food, Publicity, Entertainment & Activities, Auction, Financial & Registration, Sponsorship, Advocacy, and Fundraising.

The risk of development cancer in one’s lifetime for men is slightly less than 1 in 2 while women the risk is a little more than 1 in 3. These are US lifetime risk statistics and admittedly very sobering. However statistics also show that 2 in every 3 people diagnosed with cancer survive at least 5 years. Much of this is a result of what we know today, with research, prescreening and today’s medical advancements.

In fact cancer risk research has estimated being overweight or obese likely raises a person’s risk of getting at least 13 types of cancer because it may negatively affect the body’s immune system and inflammation, the body’s levels of certain hormones and proteins and how the body’s cells grow and divide. It is further estimated that 1 in 3 cancer deaths occur from excess body weight, poor nutrition and/or physical inactivity. Education encourages personal responsibility of one’s health.

Trying your hand at drawing for the first time or working on honing your skills? Either one, Drawing from Live Models is the place for you. Each year, the Greenville Art Guild holds this opportunity for all skill levels, beginners to experienced artists, to gather at the Brethren Retirement Community to draw from life, with three widely varying models.

This fun event takes place Monday, February 4 from 7 to 9 p.m.on the 4th floor of BRC. To join in this creative good time, enter the building at the main entrance, walk to the right past the Gift Shop to the Library. Take the elevator across from the Library to the 4th floor and let your creativity flow. Bring your own supplies or use those provided. Munchies will be available to enjoy while you create.

The Greenville Art Guild encourages creativity and growth of the individual whether as professional development or as most members of the Guild do, just sharing the joy of seeing line and shape and color. For information, call Jan, 937-548-1916.

The Friends of the Darke County Parks will once again be hosting their annual Waffle and Sausage Breakfast on Saturday, March 2nd from 7:00am-10:30am at the Nature Center, 4267 St. Rt. 502 West.

They will be serving up a hearty breakfast of waffles, sausage, juice, coffee and of course pure Ohio Maple Syrup! Tickets are available for a $5 donation, call the Nature Center or purchase them from any Friend of the Parks member, Carry-Out is available. After breakfast, take a maple syrup tour, enter the 50/50 raffle and visit the log house. Maple Syrup tours will be available Saturday, March 2nd from 7:30am-4:00pm.

February is the month when many fall off the wagon with their healthy New Year’s Resolutions! Let us help you stay on track and show some love to yourself and your community with a Y membership! The month of February is typically associated with Valentine’s Day, but it is also Canned Food Month.

During the entire month of February, the Y will waive all or part of the Joiner’s Fee with the donation of canned food items. Each canned food item will take $5 off the Joiner’s Fee. For example, with a donation of 20 canned food items the Y would completely waive the Joiner’s Fee on a Family Membership. All donations will go to a local food pantry.

Also during the month of February, the Y will accept canned food items on Sundays in lieu of payment for Day Pass Fees. Each canned food item will take $1 off the Day Pass Fee. For example, a youth would need to donate 5 canned food items for free entry on Sundays.

According to feedingamerica.org, in Darke County, 14.9% of our population lives in households where they experience “food insecurity”- they are unable to consistently access enough nutritious food necessary for a healthy life. That's about 7890 people in our community, of whom 3140 are children, who may not be sure where their next meal will come from.

Although food insecurity is harmful to any individual, it can be particularly harmful for children due to their increased vulnerability and the potential for long-term consequences. Food insecure households are not necessarily food insecure all the time. Food insecurity may reflect a family’s need to make trade-offs between important basic needs, such as housing or medical bills, and purchasing nutritionally adequate foods. (feedingamerica.org)

By making a canned goods donation to the Y this month, you not only help yourself on your health and wellness journey but you can also help people in our community who may face difficult choices during these tough economic times.

The Y is one of the leading non-profits for strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. A membership at the Y provides individuals and families many opportunities to grow, learn and thrive in a safe, positive environment. When you join the Y, you don’t just join a “gym,” you belong to something special.

For more information about membership or programs, visit us online at www.ymcadarkecounty.org or call the Y at 548-3777.

State of the Heart Hospice has announced the appointment of four new employees with the nonprofit agency. With offices in Greenville, Coldwater and Portland, State of the Heart cares for patients and families in eastern Indiana and western Ohio who are confronting a life limiting illness.

Kimberly Blasius of Greenville has been named Director of Inpatient and Palliative Care and will work from the Greenville office. Her appointment follows an announcement recently of a new hospice care unit at Wayne HealthCare. A registered nurse, she has an MSN, MBA and HCM. She has been an ER nurse and has over ten years of clinical experience.

“I have always had an interest in oncology,” she said, “and had heard that State of the Heart was a great organization to work for. I am looking forward to rounding out my understanding of hospice care.” When not working, she enjoys walking, listening to music and spending quiet time around water. She and her husband Eric have three children.

Kelly J. Kunkler of St. Henry joins State of the Heart as a Nurse Practitioner. She will work from all of the agency’s offices. She joined State of the Heart, she explained “as I have a belief in the philosophy of State of the Heart and the care the agency provides.”

Wednesday, January 30, 2013

The Greenville Schools Foundation is currently soliciting donations for our 100 for $50.00 annual fundraising campaign. With the generosity of our community, the foundation is able to provide support and resources to the students and teachers of the Greenville City Schools.

Last year the foundation was able to help out with the following: a washer and dryer for the East school, teaching and writing resources for East school, guidance funds to assist in transporting high school students to visit colleges, funds towards new risers for the high school vocal music department, and funds towards new percussion instruments for the high school band.

If you have donated to the Greenville Schools Foundation in the past, thank you for your gracious support. The grants that have been given to our students, teachers, and programs would not be possible without you.
If you would like to support our schools and make a donation , please contact Dave Ernst or Sam Suter at Greenville National Bank at 548-1114. Any size donation is greatly appreciated.

The Board of Directors for The Great Darke County Fair are pleased to announce that the ELEPHANT ENCOUNTER will perform 3 shows daily (3pm, 5pm, 7pm) beginning Monday, August 19th and ending Saturday, August 24th.

ELEPHANT ENCOUNTER is an educational and entertaining experience for the entire family, as they guide you through an up close and personal encounter with the world’s largest animals. No place, anywhere, will you see elephants like you are going to see here at The Great Darke County Fair.

The ELEPHANT ENCOUNTER is an all day attraction in a tropical setting. You’ll be inspired as you experience the full force of each elephant’s unique individual personality. The Morris family is lucky to have both species of elephants involved in these shows. Cora is a 49-year-old Asian elephant, weighing in at 9,000 pounds and Shannon is their 25-year-old African elephant, weighing in at 4,500.

This could change the way you think and feel about these magnificent creatures forever. These are not circus elephants, nor are they zoo elephants. They are family elephants and have been owned and cared for by the Morris family for virtually their entire lives. The Morris family represents 3 generations who have dedicated their entire lives to the study and care of these elephants.

These shows will take place in the same location as the Tiger, Alligator and KidBuck$ Shows in past years. Don’t miss this experience at The Great Darke County Fair!

Greg Morrow, RSVP Director, delivered more than 50 lap robes and afghans to the VA Hospital. In addition RSVP volunteers Betty Small and Marilyn Robbins delivered many more to Gracie Ratliff, the Darke County Home Administrator for residents there. These wonderful afghans and lap robes were made by our tireless RSVP volunteers in Darke County. Thank you volunteers for your time, talent and love that you put in every stitch for our veterans and County Home residents.

Interested in sharing your time and talent as a volunteer? Call the local RSVP Darke County recruiter, Cheryl Stafford today at 937-548-8002 or email her at dkrsvp@councilonruralservices.org and talk with her about the long list of volunteer opportunities that are available.

RSVP/HandsOn West Central Ohio is a program of Council on Rural Services which provides education, support, and volunteer services in our nine county service area. Also, check our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/handsonwestcentralohio to see all the great activities volunteers do every day.

A friend of mine from Greenville shared a heartwarming story with me this evening on Facebook. Justin Ord (the secret identity of local horror host “Dr. Dark”) volunteers time at the Boys and Girls Club in downtown Greenville and found more help than he was expecting when he tried to help a young man make his glasses functional again...

A young boy at the Boys and Girls Club has been wearing a pair of broken glasses with the side arm of the glasses missing for weeks. I took his glasses to Michael’s Fine Clocks and Jewelry (on Broadway in Greenville) to see if they could do anything. They said that welding it would cost $40, but they repaired them at no cost by adding a miss matched arm. It was not perfect, but now his glasses won’t fall off and he is looking much better.

Justin asked to make sure that this good deed didn't go unnoticed by posting it on DarkeJournal.com, and I am more than happy to share the story, not just of the good deed Michael’s did for the young man, but also of Justin and his obviously very caring and giving personality taking it on to seek out help for the young man.

If we have plenty of people in our community like Justin, and we have people in our community who are willing to help like the folks at Michael's did, I think we’ll be ok…

Today, Wednesday, January 30, 2013 from approximately 5:00pm to 6:00pm the phone system throughout the City Building and Police Department will be down for maintenance. During that time, all business lines into the City Building, Fire Department, and Police Department will have the potential to be down. If you have an emergency or need immediate Police, Fire, or EMS assistance, please call 9-1-1. In the event you try to call the Greenville Police Department and can't get through, please call the Darke County Sheriff's Office at 937-548-2020 for assistance.

Versailles was set to face off against the Mississinawa Valley Blackhawks at their home match. The Tigers started off with an 898 to the Blackhawks 684. The 2nd game also went to Versailles 933 to 684. The Baker Games all went to Versailles as well, 170-121, 177-118, 192-115, 151-128 and 177-147. “This was a total team effort for these 8 girls. All 8 girls were able to showcase their bowling talents today in front of their home fans.” said Coach Phlipot.

Leading scorers for the Tigers were Brooke Wehrkamp 227, Megan Monnin 215-192, Hannah Niekamp 194 and Paige Holsapple 191. The 2,698 that was rolled by the Lady Tigers was the highest girls score of the day! The girls improved their record to 11-0 with 2 more matches to go. They will traveling to Van Wert to bowl against the 8-3 Minster Wildcats. Their match will be at 1:00 p.m.

The Varsity Boys Bowlers won a tough match this past Saturday against St. Henry at McBo’s Lanes in Versailles to increase their record to 10-3. During the 15 week season, each team only has one home match as all of the teams compete against each other on the same day in the same bowling center.

The first game went to the Tigers by a slim margin of only 10 pins. It was Versailles 962 and St. Henry 952. The second game went to the Redskins by only 3 pins, 966-969. So, going into the 5 Baker Games, Versailles was only up 7 pins. “You guys are a better Baker team than St. Henry. Just go out and make good shots and let’s put this thing away.”

Correction: Previously this article stated "The FISH Choice Pantry is part of EUM Church Outreach Ministries," which is incorrect. The FISH pantry is an independent non-profit charity supported by donations from individuals and congregations of all denominations and served by caring volunteers of all faiths from across the community.

Ian Welbaum, Integrity Ambulance and Doug Bickley, FISH Volunteer

Integrity Ambulance Service employees have stepped up to ensure the residents of Darke County doesn’t go hungry.

In December, 2012 the employees of Integrity Ambulance Service launched their first Station Holiday Challenge. During this challenge, the employees donated canned foods and non-perishable items to their employing stations, spreading from Toledo to Dayton. Items were collected between December 10 and December 24. Over 700 pounds of food was collected and donated to the local FISH Choice Pantry located in Darke County.

“Due to some of the toughest financial times our country has seen in decades, many local food banks have shortages more now than ever,” says Brad Felder, President and CEO of Integrity Ambulance Service. "We are proud to help support our community in which we serve during these times when it’s needed most." Doug Bickley, Volunteer and Advisory Board member states “We help feed 1600 people on average a month, which is about 400 families.” The FISH Choice Pantry is located at 400 Markwith. “Donations are accepted anytime; someone checks the donation box every day,” says Bickley.

Integrity Ambulance Service will continue donating food to FISH and other food pantries in areas where they serve throughout the year.

CenturyLink Associates Proud to Support United Way from left to right: Tom Allread, John Crossley, Rick Krogman, Susan Fowble, Dave Kaplan.

The Darke County United Way is proud to announce that CenturyLink corporation and employees raised $3,000 for the 2013 United Way campaign.

CenturyLink corporation and employees have been very generous over the years to the local United Way and make a commitment to truly make a difference for Darke County. CenturyLink’s corporation is matching employee gifts this year through the CenturyLink Clarke M. Williams Foundation at a 60% match to support the community.

This year the staff welcomed Lauren Henry from United Way for presentations as well as Mindy Stebbins from State of the Heart Hospice to learn more about the different programs and their work throughout the community. Mindy spoke about Hospice and their bereavement programs funded in part by the United Way. CenturyLink also provides volunteer leadership for the United Way allocation process and corporate sponsorship for United Way events during the year.

On behalf of the Darke County United Way Board of Directors, we would like to give a big thank you to CenturyLink and their wonderful staff for strengthening health, education and stability in this community. Darke County United Way served over 19,000 residents last year through their 27 non-profit health and human service programs in the county.

This wonderful lecture series is more a chance to meet, greet, and to be entertained than a true “Lecture Series”.

Now in this our third season we once again are brining a unique group of interesting characters together to fascinate, educate and to enjoy.

On February 10th at 2:00 p.m. local author and contributor to the PBS series “The Lincoln Train”, Scott Trostel will join us to talk about his newest book “And Through the Black Night of Terror” The Great 1913 Flood in the Northern Miami Valley.

Scott will share facts, stories and struggles that many locals may never have heard. This March will commemorate the 100th anniversary of this tragedy and your local museum wants you to know the facts of this life changing event.

Mr. Trostel will have copies of his book for sale as well as several others that he has penned including the impressive “The Lincoln Train”. We hope you’ll save the date and share with others this wonderful opportunity to hear Mr. Trostel speak.

Planning in April, a downtown tour of the village of Versailles in “What’s Upstairs?” is currently being in the works.

Your local Historical Society has several programs available for clubs or organizations “Story in a Bag” is something we can adapt to any age.

There is so much to look forward to, so let’s get excited for another great Series presented by your local Versailles Area Historical Society.

The Versailles area Historical Society is located at the corner of State Route 121 and West Streets in Versailles.

Remember the museum is now closed for remodeling and we will announce when we will reopen for Sundays in this publication.

Tuesday, January 29, 2013

The Cancer Association of Darke County will hold their monthly support group meeting on Feb. 7 at 7 p.m. at Wayne HealthCare on the third floor in the Conference Room

Dr. Jones will be speaking about the role of the human / animal bond. Dr. Jones is a 1987 graduate of The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine. He has owned his own small animal practice in Greenville since 1989. He is a member of the American Veterinary Association and the Ohio Veterinary Medical Association. In addition to practicing veterinary medicine in Greenville Dr. Jones has, for the past 11 years, taught police officers first aid for their canine partners at a Canine Unit Training Center in Wapakoneta, Ohio. He consulted on the set up of companion animals at the Brethren's Home and continues to care for the pets there. Dr. Jones has 3 children, 2 stepchildren, a new grandson in Illinois, and a granddaughter who loves to visit "Grampa" at work. He resides in Darke County with his wife, Kathy, 3 dogs, 4 cats, 2 horses, and a flock of homing pigeons.

Cancer survivors, patients, families and those concerned about cancer patients are invited to attend. The Cancer Association is affiliated with United Way.

On behalf of the entire Versailles Bowling Program, I would like to thank the Versailles Eagles Ladies Auxiliary #2347 for hosting the Breakfast at the Eagles on Sunday, January 27th. We appreciate the support from our community and the surrounding areas to help support our self funded Bowling Program.

For those of you that came out Sunday morning to make this a huge success, THANK YOU! Due to last year’s long lines, the Ladies Auxiliary revised the food and drink lines. There was rarely a wait and everyone was able to get their food very quickly. The winner of the 42" LG LED Flat Screen TV or Apple iPad Jodi Barge and the winner of the 50/50 Raffle was Donna Wagner.

A special thank you to the Tuesday Night Bowling team, the Ladies Eagles Ladies Auxiliary #2347 and a lot of the parents of the bowlers for preparing & cooking the delicious food. Thank you to the Versailles Policy and WTGR for the help in getting the word out for this event.

Also, do not forget the Ladies Auxiliary prepares breakfast the last Sunday of every month from September through April and is open to the public.

Whirlpool Corporation, Whirlpool Foundation and KitchenAid® Experience donated $131,331 to the 2013 Darke County United Way Campaign. Whirlpool Corporation and their generous employees brings the United Way closer to the community’s 2013 goal of $360,000 to serve over 19,000 residents in the county. Whirlpool Corporation’s campaign, alone, serves close to 7,500 residents in Darke County’s community strengthening education, health, and stability. Whirlpool Corporation, Foundation and associates deserve a huge thank you for truly caring for this community’s neighbors in need.

Whirlpool Corporation and KitchenAid® Experience is a strong partner for Darke County United Way, making it a priority to serve our community. Whirlpool Corporation is the lead sponsor for the Annual United Way Kickoff Luncheon and Golf Outing which raised close to $15,000 this past fall, and they provide board leadership, as well as, allocation decision-making for the community to make sure donations are being allocated to programs that make a strong positive community impact. Whirlpool Corporation and Jim’s Drive In/Miami Valley Vending team up each year for United Way. Whirlpool Corporation and its associates also donate many school supplies to the United Way Day of Caring Stuff a Bus program each summer. This generosity allows Darke County students in need to have school supplies they may not be able to afford in order to be successful for learning. This past summer Whirlpool and KitchenAid® Experience raised funds for United Way making delicious taco salad and chicken salad lunches with Experience a Giving Lunch at the KitchenAid® Experience Store on Broadway.

On behalf of the Darke County United Way Board of Directors and Staff, we would like to extend a gracious thank you to Whirlpool Corporation, Whirlpool Foundation, KitchenAid® Experience, and all of their associates, for their generous support of this community. They truly provide hope to those who are struggling financially, with disease, and to our at-risk youth, and for that we at United Way are very grateful for this amazing partnership. To learn more about Darke County United Way visit www.darkecountyunitedway.org, and to learn more about Whirlpool Corporation visit www.whirlpool.com or visit KitchenAid® Experience at www.kitchenaid.com.

Monday, January 28, 2013

The New Year is underway, it is our typical January in the Miami Valley, and everyone is ready for spring to begin. The New Year always brings new hope for better things, and Darke County is also looking to improve on a very impressive 2012. We are looking forward to keeping Darke County headed in a positive direction.

Darke County Auditor Carol Ginn submitted the County’s General Fund Appropriations on January 4th in the amount of $16,219,281.40. Thanks to all of our elected officials and department heads for all their hard work and dedication.

The first Manufacturing Readiness class was a success, and the second one will be starting on February, 4th. The first class had nine enrollees, and the week- long class provided the attendees with added skills to get a job in today’s market. As this class progresses, we will learn more what the companies involved need in today’s workplace. For more information on the class, contact Sherry Mueller at Jobs and Family Services. This class is for all ages, not just young people looking for jobs, or job advancement; it is for any interested person looking to join the workforce.

The Darke County Chamber of Commerce is working on a presentation for their members on Feb. 1st concerning the new Health care law. The Chamber is presenting this forum to let individuals and companies know how the law will affect their businesses. In 2014, it is estimated that 30 million more people will be enrolled in Medicare, and this jump in numbers will affect the need for doctors, nurses, and facilities. Contact the Darke County Chamber to become a member at (937) 548-2102, and to learn more about the legislative workings of the Darke County Chamber and its members.

Casino Revenues will be deposited into the County’s account for the 4th quarter of last year on January, 31st. The amount is estimated to be 27% less than was first anticipated. The addition of VLT’s (Video Lottery Terminals) at the State’s Horse Racing tracks will cut into the County’s share even more as only 1 track has VLT’s now, and 6 more should have them by the end of the year. We have estimated our County share to be substantially lower in 2013 in the budget just to make sure we do not count on the estimated revenue we were supposed to receive when this was first proposed. We will continue to be conservative in all of our estimates on revenues.

On January 14th, the Whirlpool Corporation celebrated the making of over 2 million mixers at the Greenville plant in 2012. Senator Keith Faber, Representative Jim Buchy, all 3 County Commissioners, and Mayor Mike Bowers were present with representatives from Whirlpool Headquarters in Michigan, including the C.E.O. Jeff Fettig, for the presentation. With 2,249,712 mixers made in 2012, the total number of mixers made last year figures out to be a little over 1 mixer every 15 seconds coming out of the Greenville plant! That is an awesome achievement, and all employees and managers are to be congratulated for all their hard work. Can 3 million a year be far behind?

Midmark Corporation’s expansion program continues along nicely. The Contractors, Ferguson Construction, along with their sub-contractors, continue on in spite of the cold weather. We will keep you informed as the project moves forward. In other economic news, workforce development continues to be our main focus. Marc Saluk continues to meet with companies and schools to advance our workforce agenda. Darke County is ahead of the curve in workforce development and Marc should have some more news as we go forward. Darke County had a banner year in 2012 as our unemployment rate continued to drop, and more and more companies are looking to grow here, and stay here. To stay abreast of Darke County’s economic growth, you can always check out the Darke County Economic Development website, or “like” them on Facebook at Darke County Ohio Economic Development. Both sites will keep you well informed, as we look to keep Darke County the leader in the Dayton Development area.

On January 23rd, Commissioners Delaplane and Stegall, along with Economic Development Director Marc Saluk, attended the Dayton Development Coalitions annual event at the Schuster center. The event focused on the many accomplishments that have happened in the Dayton Region in the last year, and where we are headed. Darke County has been one of the shining examples the last 2 years in the region, and we will continue to lead with the help of the Dayton Coalition and the leadership of Jeff Hoagland. Thanks Jeff for all of the Coalitions help. On January 25th, Partnering for Progress (P4P) held their quarterly meeting at the Brethrens Retirement Center. The crowd of about 80 people was the largest yet for a winter meeting. Presentations were made by Senator Beagle and Marc Saluk on the Workforce development programs being worked on at the State and local levels. All- American Clothing co-owner Lawson Nichol received the “Business of the Quarter” Award. Congratulations to the Nichol family for the fine work they are doing with “Made in America” clothing in Arcanum. For more information on how you can become a part of P4P, contact the Economic Development office at (937) 548-3250. A special Thanks to John Warner and the fine people at the Brethren's home for hosting the event. It was much appreciated.

Much good is happening in the County and one way to keep up is to attend a Commissioners meeting. We meet every Monday and Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. in the Commissioner’s office located at 520 South Broadway in Greenville. Hope to see you there!

Due to the many changes made by the fiscal cliff legislation, OSU Extension will be hosting two “Farm Tax Webinars.” The first will be held on Tuesday, January 29 from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. and the second session on Wednesday, February 6 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Farmers are encouraged to choose whichever session fits their schedule best and to connect via the internet at their home. This webinar will be a great way to learn the latest on farm taxes and the impacts of the fiscal cliff legislation.

The following topics will be discussed during this two hour webinar:

Fiscal Cliff Legislative Update

Farm Bill Extension-what does it mean?

Acre & SURE Program Updates

New Income Tax Brackets (Income & Capital Rates)

Section 179 Extension & Increase

Special Depreciation Increase

Payroll Tax Increase

Filing Status delay due to Form 4562

2012 Weather-Related Sales

Crop Insurance and Disaster Payments

Weather Related Sales of Livestock

Estate Tax Issues

New Federal Income Tax Limitations ($5 million, portability, 40%)

Elimination of Ohio Estate Tax- 1/1/2013

Miscellaneous Farm Issues

CAUV Tax Increase Explanation in Counties Across Ohio

Oil & Gas Lease & Royalty Income

Hunting Lease Income

Conservation Easement Deduction

This program is being offered by the OSU Income Tax School Program of OSU Extension. The speakers will include Larry Gearhardt, Dr. Chris Bruynis and David Marrison. No pre-registration is required and producers can attend by logging on to http://carmenconnect.osu.edu/ohioagmanager/

This will be a great chance to learn more about the changes in agricultural taxes.

More information about this program can be obtained by contacting David Marrison at marrison.2@osu.edu or 440-576-9008.

For more detailed information, visit the Darke County OSU Extension web site at www.darke.osu.edu, the OSU Extension Darke County Facebook page or contact Sam Custer, at 937.548.5215.

WKSU, Kent State's radio station, has posted a story on their site saying that Governor Kasich is expected to announce proposed changes to overhaul Ohio's education funding system.

No real predictions are made in the article as to what changes would be proposed, but this has been a hot topic around Darke County over the past few years, particularly in Greenville where levies for new money to replace existing buildings have failed consistently amid calls for a new mechanism for funding, one that doesn't rely heavily on property taxes, as one of the most consistent reasons given for voting "no."

What changes would you like to see made? If you voted no previously on new school levies, would a funding mechanism you see as more balanced or fair make you a yes voter?

It is custom at the beginning of every legislative term for the legislature to lay out goals, as well as ideas for how best to achieve them. These ideas focus on issues that are most important for the state. Often, while other issues obviously surface along the way, the top policy issues that are established at the beginning of the General Assembly require the most time and attention.

The biggest priority of House Republicans under Speaker Bill Batchelder has been on the subject of job creation. Since January 2011, Ohioans have created more than 120,000 jobs, which has been the defining factor of Ohio’s unemployment rate falling at nearly twice the rate of the national average. Jobs will continue to be the primary focus in the upcoming term as well.

Training workers to fill those jobs is also critical. Previously, Ohio had dozens of workforce training programs spread across 13 different state agencies, which led to immense waste and inefficiency. Much will continue to be done to improve the system because effective workforce training is a necessary part of expanding the jobs market.

Education goes hand-in-hand with training workers, and will continue to be an important focus. All education reform efforts must be centered on one simple, yet extremely important, objective: student success. Gearing children and young adults for success will most certainly help them to lead prosperous, independent lives.

The ideas presented in this column are merely a sampling of the issues that will be addressed by the legislature. Before bills are debated in the House chamber, they must first pass out of committee, where they are vetted not only by legislators, but also by constituents. It is especially important during this time to hear what the people of Ohio think about certain pieces of legislation.

Your feedback makes bills better because it opens them up to a wider array of opinion and analysis. For that reason, I urge you to contact my office at any time to provide your unique viewpoint on the issues that impact our state.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby and Darke Counties announce Bowl For Kids Sake 2013. This is their annual bowling fundraiser, where giving individuals from the communities team up to support the agency’s biggest event of the year. Big Brothers Big Sisters is recruiting bowlers and sponsors to help with this bowling party. Bowl for Kids’ Sake is an important event to help fund their year-round one-to-one mentoring program between caring adults and children facing adversity. The need for teams and a successful fundraiser is needed now more than ever to help us to continue the successful mentoring relationships that are built within the agency.

Bowl For Kids’ Sake 2013 takes place at Bel-Mar Lanes in Sidney and Treaty Lanes in Greenville on Friday, March 1 from 5-6 p.m., and March 3 from 12-4 p.m.

Bowl for Kids’ Sake is open to the public and local community members can form 4 – 5 person teams. Each team member collects donations and comes out to enjoy the party. Corporate sponsorships are available for $600 where a company enters a five-person team of the company’s employees; this includes a company lane banner, and a company logo on the back of over 500 t-shirts that will be given out the day of the event. T-shirt sponsorships for $400 include your company logo on all t-shirts. Team sponsorships are available for $300, and the company enters a five-person team of the company’s employees; this includes a company lane banner. A Lane Sponsorship for $125 includes the company name placed on a large banner above one of the lanes during the day-long event. All sponsor names are announced throughout the day. Many fantastic prizes will be awarded at this event as well as a silent auction!

For more information or to register a team, please call the Sidney office at 937-492-7611 or the Greenville office at 937-547-9622, or visit our website at www.bigbrobigsis-shelbydarke.org.

Sunday, January 27, 2013

Commissioner Mike Stegall will be at Brethren Retirement Community in Greenville on two (2) occasions in February. The first event will be the “Resident Town Hall” meeting on Friday, February 1st at 1:00 p.m., in the Brick Room. This meeting is a chance for the residents to ask questions of the Commissioner, and Commissioner Stegall will give a short presentation on the accomplishments of the County in 2012 and where we are headed in 2013. The second occasion will be on Wednesday, February 6th at 10:00 a.m. for the Men’s Coffee meeting. This meeting will consist of the same format, with questions from the group being the main focus.

Commissioner Stegall believes that communication with the public and being available to them is essential for good government. It is especially important to go to those who otherwise may not be able to come to him. This is the 3rd year that the Commissioner has made this trip to Brethren Retirement Community for these meetings.

Speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives William G. Batchelder (R-Medina) this week appointed State Representative Richard Adams (R-Troy) to serve as chair of the Financial Institutions, Housing and Urban Development Committee. State Representative Jay Hottinger (R-Newark) will serve as the vice chair. State Representative Kevin Boyce (D-Columbus), a former State Treasurer, will serve as ranking member.

As chair during the previous General Assembly, Rep. Adams guided a number of significant bills into law, including House Bills 322 and 209. By leveling the playing field for Ohio’s banking industry, House Bill 322 makes it possible for Huntington Bank to create 250 new jobs over the next four years. House Bill 209, sponsored by Rep. Adams, enables public funds managers to deposit funds in Ohio banks and keep taxpayer dollars in community banks in order to benefit local economies.

Additionally, Rep. Adams will continue his work on the Finance and Appropriations Committee, contributing to the development of a Biennium State Budget. He will serve on the Transportation Subcommittee of the Finance and Appropriations Committee, addressing the challenges of transportation expenditures as a part of the infrastructure of Ohio. He will also serve on the State and Local Government Committee and the Joint Legislative Committee on Health Oversight.

Rep. Adams said, “I appreciate receiving these assignments from Speaker Batchelder to important areas of state government. I look forward to participating in the development of quality legislation as characterized by those aspects of state law which focus on the needs of Ohioans and the cost-effective spending of taxpayer dollars.”

Rep. Adams is currently serving his third term in the Ohio House of Representatives. He represents the 80th House District, which contains Miami County and parts of Darke County.

Community Blood Center (CBC) and Vectren Corporation are joining forces to award $10,000 in scholarships and education grants to area seniors and high schools in recognition of their outstanding leadership in the shared mission of saving lives.

The emphasis is on ingenuity in the newly revised CBC/Vectren Lead the Way Creative Scholarship Program. Vectren will again provide $1,000 in tuition assistance to five college-bound seniors who design the most creative blood drive recruitment campaigns.

CBC is introducing the High School Leadership Grant Program to reward excellence among the more than 100 highs schools in the CBC region who host multiple campus blood drives. Eligible schools will compete for $1,000 grants in five award categories.

“These programs demonstrate how much we value our partnerships with the high schools,” said CBC Donor Relations Director Andrew Keelor. “When principals, teachers and parents are willing to spare academic time so students can donate, we know it is for a lesson about community that goes beyond the classroom.”

LEAD THE WAY CREATIVE SCHOLARSHIPS

Lead the Way is a $5,000 creative scholarship program sponsored by Community Blood Center (CBC) and Vectren Corporation to support young adults who will be our blood resource leaders of tomorrow.

CBC and Vectren will award $1,000 scholarships to five graduating, college-bound seniors whose high school hosts a CBC blood drive.

Applicants are asked to imagine themselves as a leader of their high school blood drive as they:

Create a theme for the blood drive.

Explain why the theme will be effective in encouraging students to donate.

Express the theme in a clever, creative fashion using conventional marketing techniques or innovative, artistic expressions.

Deadline for entry is April 20. Applicants can read about last year’s winners, see samples of their winning campaigns (including Bethany Faile’s “Have Love. Give Life. Leave a Legacy. Recycle Hope” video), and download an application form at www.GivingBlood.org.

HIGH SCHOOL LEADERSHIP GRANTS

The High School Leadership Grant Program is a new approach by CBC to reward and encourage area highs schools that demonstrate blood drive excellence and involve student groups as active and energetic blood drive organizers.

To be eligible the school must be in the CBC 15-county service area, sponsor at least two CBC blood drives between August and May of the current school year, and a student group must sponsor one or more of the drives.

CBC will award five $1,000 grants in the following categories:

Participation - Most registered donors during the academic year.

Growth - Greatest percentage increase in registered donors from the previous school year.

Commitment (2 awards) - Highest and second highest percentage of donors based on eligible school population. (Eligible school population is defined as sophomore, junior and senior class members).

Red Cord Excellence - Highest percentage of senior class members qualifying for the Red Cord Honor Program. (A student must register to donate three or more times during their high school career to receive a Red Cord).

Each school’s achievements will be tallied at the end of the school year. Winners will be announced on the CBC website and in local media.

Saturday, January 26, 2013

There are many ways a single blood donation saves lives, and just as many ways to describe the type of people who make it possible. During the heart of winter Community Blood Center (CBC) is reminding donors of the powerful potential they hold for giving hope and changing lives with the “You Can Be a Blood Donor” campaign.

The “You Can Be a Blood Donor” t-shirt is free to everyone who registers to donate at any CBC branch and most mobile blood drives Monday, Jan. 28 through Saturday, Feb. 23. The design features a colorful and creative description of the kind of donor anyone can be, from “Cool, Amazing, Strong and Awesome” to “Great, Powerful, Phenomenal and Inspiring.”

As January National Volunteer Blood Donor Month ends, CBC continues to face the challenges to the blood supply that come with winter. Snow has already disrupted CBC center and mobile blood drive schedules, and the unusually severe flu and cold season has prevented many people from donating. CBC reminds new and returning donors to schedule an appointment to give when you are able.

Darke County Bar Association officers present a scholarship check to Clint Hale, 2008 graduate of Arcanum High School and student at Pepperdine University College of Law. Left to right: Mike Rieman and Nicole Pohlman (DCBA); Clint Hale (scholarship recipient), Nathan Hosek (DCBA) and Christy Prakel (HOPE Foundation president).

The HOPE Foundation of Darke County is pleased to announce the recipient of the Darke County Bar Association Scholarship. Cline Hale, 2008 graduate of Arcanum High School, is a student at Pepperdine University College of Law in Malibu, California. This scholarship is awarded annually to an outstanding law student who attended a Darke County high school. The Bar Association is proud to support local graduates in their pursuit of a legal career and would like to encourage them to return to Darke County to practice law.

As the community foundation of Darke County, the HOPE Foundation (Helping Other People Excel) receives, manages and distributes charitable gifts for the benefit of Darke County residents. Professionally managed funds support scholarships and community grants to local non-profit organizations. For more information on the HOPE Foundation, call 548-HOPE or visit www.hopedarkecounty.com.

Monday evening the Versailles Area Chamber of Commerce (VACC) held its annual banquet. Chamber Director, Eric Paulus presented Mrs. Debra Pohl the Citizen of the Year Award. Deb was nominated by her sister, Pam Groff who was on hand with the rest of the Mrs. Pohl’s family, with the exception of son Brian who was ill the evening of the banquet.

Deb’s life long volunteering in the community and local organizations, as well as, her involvement with school functions won her the title of Citizen of the Year.

Mrs. Pohl has been affiliated with the Poultry Days festival, Modern Mother’s Club, Serendipity Moms, Versailles Rescue Squad, Versailles Alumni Association, St. Denis Parish Council, Meals on Wheels, Versailles Alumni Association, Friends of Worch Memorial Library, Versailles Council of Churches, Versailles Swim Team, Band Boosters, Versailles FFA, Rhythm Company, Towne & Country Players, Athletic Boosters, the Versailles Historical Society and Operation Christmas Child. Deb’s motivating and optimistic personality is enjoyed by many young athletes, actors and musicians because she attends many of the local youth’s extra curricular events.

Deb is a lifelong resident of Versailles and graduate of Versailles. She and her husband Harold raised four children, David Christa, Brian, & Rebecca and now have five grandchildren. They are the owners of Harold J. Pohl, Inc., Pohl Transportation and Pohl Logistics.

During the banquet the Versailles Garden Club was also recognized and honored with the People-Pride-Progress Award. The Garden Club was founded in 1961 since its inception the club has always been an active organization committed to making Versailles beautiful.

The Garden Club has won numerous awards on the district, state and national level during its 52 years of existence. The award was presented by Chamber President Brian Wagner and received by the Garden Club Vice President Chris Lennon.

This Week on The Importance of American Manufacturing:
Meet Josh Miller. Josh is the Producer of the upcoming documentary film “Made in the USA: The 30 Day Journey.” In the film, he will be traveling America in search of finding what it means to be “Made in the USA.”

Q. Please tell us a little about yourself.

A. My name is Josh Miller, I am the Creator/Producer of “Made in the USA: The 30 Day Journey”.While my film is currently in post production, I work as a Records Management Specialist for the West Virginia State Treasurer’s Office. However, after this film has been completed I would like to take on filmmaking full-time if fiscally possible. Family always comes first, so as long as I can take care of my wife and family, I’ll keep making films.

Q. Why is American Manufacturing important to you?

A. I think American Manufacturing, along with the workers manufacturing employs is the lifeblood of America. The ability to create and innovate in America is vital, but if the creators and innovators lose the backbone of our country I think we fall apart as you have seen lately. Once we have a strong diverse mix of jobs in this country I believe we will regain the misstep we have recently taken over the past few decades. We must have a strong manufacturing sector along with a thriving service sector to get our country back on track. We must encourage entrepreneurs.

Q. Where did your passion for USA manufacturing begin?

A. When you watch major facilities leave your town in the dust, it really wakes you up. When Century Aluminum laid off over 650 people, including my father in law David Nelson, in my hometown of Ravenswood, WV I think it woke me up to the importance of these types of jobs here in our great country.

Q. Have you expressed that passion throughout your life?

A. Unfortunately no, I was like every young kid in middle school and high school. I had to have the Nike Clothes, Under Armour, American Eagle, etc. This is the tricky part, kids that age do not think or really care about where these things are made generally, so to entice that age group, you need to create a brand that these kids and young adults will desire. Me, being 27 now, I do pay more attention to what I buy in regards to where it is made because I know that will impact the future of our country and my family, but we can’t expect a 10 year old to grasp that concept entirely, so when I speak to the apparel industry directly I tell them they need to make their product “cool” if they want the younger generation to buy it. That’s just being flat out honest. I think that is one thing that will take this movement to the next level, is not pretending that people will gladly buy something just because it says “Made in USA”, the product also needs to meet quality demands. We must outcompete the world and that has been my message that I believe that message needs to be thoroughly expressed to our Congress and our President. They must use their power as policy makers to be a catalyst in this movement. We can’t help the world if we can’t take care of things at home first.

Q. What is your favorite quote?

A. “Remember upon the conduct of each depends the fate of all.” ~ Alexander the Great

___________________________________________________________

It was a great pleasure to have Josh Miller join us this week. I know many folks who just cannot wait to watch his upcoming documentary. Thank you all for reading! Join us next week for another segment of ‘The Importance of American Manufacturing.’

If you, or someone you know, would be interested in being interviewed on the Importance of American Manufacturing, please send inquiries to Logan Beam at logan@allamericanclothing.com

Friday, January 25, 2013

Main Street Greenville is currently accepting applications for the position of Executive Director.

The Main Street Greenville Executive Director coordinates activity within a downtown revitalization program. He/she is responsible for the development, conduct, execution and documentation of the Main Street program. The Executive Director is the principal on-site staff person responsible for coordinating all project activities. In addition, the Executive Director should help guide the organization as it grows and as its objectives evolve.

The Executive Director should have education and/or experience in one or more of the following areas: public relations, marketing, architecture, historic preservation, economics, finance, design, journalism, planning, business administration, public administration, retail, volunteer or nonprofit administration and/or small business development. The Executive Director must be sensitive to design and preservation issues. The Director must understand the issues confronting downtown business people, property owners, public agencies and community organizations. The Director must be entrepreneurial, energetic, imaginative, well organized and capable of functioning effectively in a very independent situation. Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential. Supervisory skills are desirable.

Submit resumes for the position of Main Street Greenville Executive Director no later than noon on Friday, February 8, 2013 to: ernstd@greenvillenationalbank.com. Please include 3 professional references. Electronic resumes are preferred; however hard copies may be mailed to:

Friday, January 18th during the Versailles’ Varsity basketball game against Fort Recovery, the Versailles Cheerleaders hosted a patriotic tribute to honor those who have and are presently serving our country. The student section and the Tiger fans in attendance were dressed in red, white, and blue to say thank you to our armed forces. As a special thank you to the military all veterans who wore their service uniform to the game were admitted free of charge. Four of the five military branches were recognized during the half-time performance. (The fifth branch of the U.S Military is the Coast Guard which had no representative.)

The Army was represented by Matthew Kelch. Retired military Colonel James Condon represented the Air Force, Alex Luthman for the Navy and Ralph Kunk for the Marines. During the half time performance each of these four military branches on hand were escorted by a cheerleader while their branch song was played. The veterans and active within the audience were invited to also stand and be recognized.

The VFW Post #3849 and American Legion Post #435 both of Versailles were on hand for the ceremony to present the colors, under the leadership of Field Commander Mike Barga. Rachel Hedrick, VHS cheerleader narrated the ceremony and spearheaded the event to honor past, present, and future United States Veterans, which included raising funds for the Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP). Other key supporters included the Versailles Rotary Club, Patterson Patchers 4-H club, Busy Beavers 4-H club, Versailles FFA, Luke Osterloh Farms, and Tom Magoto Insurance. More than $500 was raised

Wounded Warrior Project® serves veterans and service members who incurred a physical or mental injury, illness, or wound, co-incident to their military service on or after September 11, 2001 and their families. Combined, over 48,000 servicemen and women have been physically injured in the recent military conflicts.
Figures compiled this month indicated and estimated 50,405 wounded military. In addition to the physical wounds, it is estimated as many as 400,000 service members live with the invisible wounds of war including combat-related stress, major depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Another 320,000 are believed to have experienced a traumatic brain injury while on deployment. For more information you may visit WWP online at http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org. You may also contact Rachel Hedrick with your personal donation.

Darke County Park District would like to thank the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery for bringing their Star Lab to the Nature Center. Everyone that attended the program had a great time and learned a lot about the night sky, including common constellations and how they got their name.

If you missed out on this program, be sure to check out our Nature Notes or visit our website at www.darkecountyparks.org for upcoming programs that you or your family may be interested in attending!

Thursday, January 24, 2013

On January 24, 2013 at approximately 8:40 A.M., Darke County Deputies along with Union City Fire and Rescue and CareFlight were dispatched to the area of Beamsville-Union City Road and Hillgrove-Ft. Recovery Road on a report of a one vehicle injury crash with ejection.

Preliminary investigation revealed a blue 1994 Ford Ranger, driven by 30 year old, John V. Neargarder of Union City, Ohio was traveling east on Beamsville-Union City Road and passed another vehicle in the same direction at a high rate of speed. The Ford Ranger then traveled off the right side of the road, causing the driver to overcorrect, and then travel off the left side of the road, striking several trees and a fence, which caused the vehicle to rollover, while partially ejecting the driver, who was trapped with the vehicle on top of him.

John Neargarder was removed from the vehicle by Union City Fire and Rescue after they inflated an airbag, lifting the vehicle off of him. Mr. Neargarder was airlifted by CareFlight to Miami Valley Hospital, where he is listed in stable condition.

This accident remains under investigation by the Darke County Sheriff's Office.

Main Street Greenville requests the honor of your presence in downtown Greenville for First Fridays: Wedding Walk!

Downtown Greenvile will once again come alive from 5:30-9:00 pm with 'First Fridays' kicking off for 2013 on Friday, February 1. The theme for this month's first Friday is a wedding walk tailored but not limited to soon-to-be newly weds and married couples. Sponsored by Romer's Catering, the event focuses on over 20 downtown businesses that serve the wedding industry. The free event allows groups and couples to explore the historic district in the evening at a relaxed pace and setting. The walk begins at Romer's, 118 E. Main Street, where a map and passport will be provided. The map will highlight businesses on the walk and the category they serve for weddings, newly weds and the not so newly weds!

Comedienne/ventriloquist Lynn Trefzger will bring her trunk full of characters to The Bistro Off Broadway in Greenville on Thursday, February 7, continuing Darke County Center for the Arts' Coffeehouse Series season. DCCA's Coffeehouse presentations take place in intimate venues where audiences can enjoy food and drink as well as a show. The performance begins at 7 p.m.

Lynn Trefzger, who has been performing for over 30 years, first gained national attention with her appearance on Star Search. “Currently recognized as one of the best ventriloquists in the world, Lynn is also riotously funny,” said DCCA Artistic Director Keith Rawlins. “She has appeared on TV numerous times, entertained on various cruise lines, and performed on stages around the country to wild acclaim. Her show will be a lot of fun for the whole family,” Rawlins concluded.

According to Mr. Rawlins, Lynn's many characters include a lazy camel named Camelot, Emily, a feisty girl whose life revolves around shopping, dieting, dating, and clothes, cranky old man Judd Wapner, and chief sidekick Simon. The ventriloquist also brings members of the audience on stage, who become human dummies mouthing witty words in surprising voices. “Lynn's vocal illusions are amazing, and her inventive humor keeps audiences laughing from the time the first character appears until the show ends,” Rawlins stated.

The Coffeehouse Series is sponsored by Julie and Tom Graber, Eileen and Steve Litchfield, and Rodney Oda. Darke County Center for the Arts also receives support from local businesses, foundations, and the Ohio Arts Council, which helped fund this program with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence, and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans.

Tickets for the Lynn Trefzger show are $10, and may be reserved by contacting DCCA at 937-547-0908 or purchased online at www.centerforarts.net. If any remain by showtime, tickets will also be available at the door. Those wishing to have dinner at The Bistro Off Broadway prior to the show should make reservations by calling The Bistro at 937-316-5000.

The YMCA has a robust background in gymnastics. It is one of the most popular national competitive sports leagues at the Y. The Y hosts state, regional and national championships annually, helping kids learn the value of hard work, reach for excellence and enjoy the spirit of competition.

Sheyanne Olson is the Darke County Y's new program coordinator for the gymnastics program. Sheyanne is a 2010 graduate of Greenville High School and is currently a junior at Wright State University studying sports science. She has 13 years of experience as a competitive cheerleader and worked in the Y’s gymnastics department for five years.

Sheyanne coaches the Greenville junior varsity cheerleaders and is also in her second year as a coach of the Y's gymnastics team. She coaches level five and six girls, and travels to other local Ys for competitions. Last year the team qualified for Nationals and traveled to Wisconsin to compete.

Your local Y offers a number of gymnastics and tumbling classes for members and guests. Boys and girls can start at an early age by taking a class with a parent such as the Y’s “You & Me Baby” class. Children age 3 and up can take Tumble Tots and 4 years old and up can take Beginner Tumbling, or Rollers, Swingers or Kippers depending on skill levels. The Y also offers Intermediate and Advanced Tumbling classes as well as Tumble for Cheer, which is geared for junior high or high school students who want to master a higher level of tumbling skills for use in cheerleading.

Gymnastics and tumbling are physically difficult sports, says Sheyanne. The younger a student starts, the more able they are to learn the proper form to build upon. Body positions learned include the squat, pike, straddle, lunge, v-sit, tuck and bridge. Sheyanne says one thing she enjoys about coaching is seeing the students learn. “It’s rewarding to see students set goals, work on skills and accomplish new things,” she says.

The sport is also good for social skills, since the athletes meet a variety of students on different teams from different schools.

The Darke county Y will be hosting the district meet on March 16 and 17, featuring events on the beam, bars, floor and vault.

Students or parents who are interested in gymnastics or tumbling can visit a class any time or contact Sheyanne at sheyolsn@aol.com.

Do you want to help Darke County look it’s best? Join the Darke County Solid Waste District in our sixth annual Darke County “Trash Bash” Community Clean-up Day on Saturday, April 20 & 21, 2013. By participating, you help create a good impression on prospective employers, professionals, and others who visit our “clean” county.

According to a 2000 Yankelovich study, almost half of all Americans (48%) admit to having littered in the past 10 years and it shows on many of our roads, parks, neighborhoods and work sites. Where there is litter, people do not feel safe. Everyone deserves to live in a community that is healthy, safe, clean and beautiful, and we all have a role to play in achieving this goal. Through your volunteer efforts, clean-up will be focused on approximately 400 miles of Darke County’s most traveled county and township roads. These roads were chosen with the help of Darke County Engineer, James Surber and County Highway Garage Superintendent, Shane Coby.

How can you participate? The Darke County Community Clean-Up day is scheduled for April 20 & 21, 2013, rain or shine. The collection is set to begin at 8:00 a.m. The district is looking for numerous groups of 4 to “pound the pavement” at their assigned 2-mile locations picking-up bags of trash and recyclables. Clean-up groups can be started with friends from school, work, church, and volunteer organizations or clubs and there’s no age limit for volunteers. Call the district at 937-547-0827 to register your clean-up group or to offer in-kind support. Sign-up forms can also be found on the district’s website: www.co.darke.oh.us/solidwaste , click on the recycling events tab. Forms must be turned in by March 15, 2013.

Each group will be given black bags for trash and clear bags for recyclables. For separating the recyclables from the trash, each group will be awarded $40.00 for participating. Awards will be given to Darke County non-profit organizations only. There is no limit to the number of groups that an organization can enter. County highway employees will follow assigned routes and will pick-up bags left on the targeted collection roads on April 22, 2013.

The Young Careerist Committee of the Greenville Business & Professional Women’s Club (BPW) hosted the January 10, 2013 meeting which was held at the Brethren Retirement Community.

Committee Chair Deb Niekamp introduced fellow BPW member Andria Haworth as the featured speaker for the evening. Andria has been with Edward Jones for 11 years and is a Financial Advisor. She gave a presentation on ‘The Rules of the Road’ and covered 10 key steps toward achieving your financial goals. The rules are: 1) Develop a strategy; 2) Stick with quality; 3) Diversify; 4) Invest for the long run; 5) Address mistakes quickly; 6) Understand risk, and take steps to help reduce it; 7) It’s not what you make, it’s what you keep; 8) Quality stocks have historically outperformed quality bonds; 9) Focus on what you can control and 10) Review your strategy annually. In discussing her presentation Haworth hopes everyone learned a little something. She thinks it is important to continue to recognize and learn from successful women! Andria commented that she would love to be able to reach out to other young women and be an inspiration to them that they can do anything they set their mind to. At Edward Jones alone, there are over 12,000 financial advisors. Of that 12,000 only 2,000 are female. Women have come a long way but still have a ways to go!

Deb concluded the program by giving an overview of the Young Careerist Program. All local candidates are now eligible for state competition. The Virginia Allen Young Careerist program is a specialty program developed to help young professional women polish their skills for leadership and presentations.

The Greenville BPW Club’s mission is to achieve equity for all women in the workplace through advocacy, education, and information. The Club holds fundraisers through the year to raise money to grant scholarships to the young women of Darke County. The Club meets the second Thursday of every month for a dinner meeting. Those interested in learning more about the Club can contact Membership Chair Gail Snyder at 937-423-4854 or through gails669@embarqmail.com

The property is located near the intersection of Katzenberger and Meeker Roads next to Family Health.

The article goes on to state that the facility will be home to several services and is partnering with both Wayne Health Care and Family Health so that the new facility will offer complimentary services to what is already offered by the other providers, including cardiology and psychiatric services.

We are looking for a Licensed Optician in Greenville, Ohio to turn the optical world upside down! (937) 548-7811. You bring the competencies, your fashion focus personal style and a desire to grow with a phenomenal company, and you will rock in our world!

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Ensure the delivery of a simple, fun and in-style fashion experience. Daily, builds brand awareness by attracting new guests to optical. Create a personalized Fashion experience for each guest on every visit by uncovering their personal style and matching to products available. Ensure all operating policies and procedures are followed at the highest level to include merchandising and framewear presentation, timely and accurate implementation of approved marketing programs and promotions, the accurate completion of all sales transactions, and utilization of all sales strategies and resources. Please send resume to dkb2020@dickmankettlerbruner.com.

Optical Receptionist

We are looking for a candidate will turn our front desk world upside down! You bring the competencies and a desire to grow with a phenomenal company and you will rock in our world! The variety of the work--no two days are ever the same. You will work with people who are passionate about the work they do and the strong brand they represent.

Requirements: A minimum of a high school diploma, excellent behavioral skills, superior attention to detail, multitasking skills and the ability to answer the many phone lines. At least 3 years’ experience working as a receptionist and at least 3 years’ experience in the field of computer use practice management software such as visual OfficeMate or medical EMR. Experience in vision and medical insurance and benefits a plus. (937)548-7811 or email your resume to dkb2020@dickmankettlerbruner.com.

In the photo Andrea Jordan is collecting tickets
at DCCA sold out fundraiser A Taste of Wine & Jazz XXIV.

The Greenville Business & Professional Women’s (BPW) Club is making preparations for their February meeting. The meeting is being hosted by the Public Relations Committee consisting of Susan Fowble, Norma Fae Knick and Mary Catherine Wilson.

The new Darke County Center for the Arts (DCCA) Executive Director Andrea Jordan has been invited to be the featured speaker. She joins the center with a communications degree from John Carroll University and has experience working on Cleveland art projects with the Playhouse Square Center and Cain Park. She moved to Darke County about 8 years ago and said she’s loved the community ever since. Jordan has volunteered with DCCA for the past few years promoting the family theatre series. Andrea will be speaking on the mission of DCCA as well as programs that are scheduled for the 2013 series. Come and hear what DCCA has to offer for entertainment in Darke County!

The Club will be meeting on Thursday, February 14, 2013 in the Private Dining Room in the Brick Room at the Brethren Retirement Community located at 750 Chestnut, Greenville, OH. The dinner meeting will begin at 6:30 PM.

The Greenville BPW Club would like to invite women interested in learning more about the Club to the meeting. Call Susan Fowble at 937/548-1414 by noon on Monday, February11, 2013 to make a reservation to attend this meeting. The cost is $10.00 per person.

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We understand your site really has the best coverage for our county.

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I just love your website. It's better than any newspaper or TV program. Keep up the good work.

I like the DJ because it just gives the facts pure and simple. I also like to read what the readers think. You keep up the good work & you will grow!

I am so glad that I found this site. It is so nice to have such an upbeat & unbiased Darke County news. I look forward to checking it each day. I just found it this month. Plus, I can feel free to voice my concerns on issues. Great web site!

When I turn on my computer in the morning, I check the weather and Darke Journal before anything else. Thank you for the pix & info on this site. It's nice to know what's going on in our great Darke County.

You are doing a great service and this is a great media outlet!

It just gets better and better! Truly, the 'mix' is what makes it so good for all readers.

DJ = nice guy, but should relinquish his website duties.

This is a wonderful site! I am so glad there is a place in this community where people can voice their opinion about issues. In the past for many years this community seems to be run by so called political people with others hiding in the brush waiting to inform their leaders of those who disagree with an issue on hand, just so they can point them out and try to ruin their life. Again I am so glad finally, an average Joe can make an Anonymous posted opinion and not fear that they will be pointed at or looked down for stating how they feel. Thank you D. J.

It’s better than most of the media available in and around Darke County.

The web site has had steadily increasing viewership over the last year or two and, at least in my opinion, has become a major player in getting news and commentary to Darke Countians.